Latin Twist: Perfect-for-New-Year’s-Eve Cocktail

Mis queridos amigos, first I have to tell you: despite the champagne title, these days I don’t make this cocktail with it (lately I prefer to use Prosecco!). But, well, since we do associate that amazing sparkling wine with festivities–those New Year’s Eve related and beyond–so I’m keeping the name!

And second, this is really the most important point for sharing this drink, it’s simple, elegant, and wow, delicious! In fact, today (at dawn!) I made it on the morning Telemundo show, Buenos Días, New York, and it was a big hit! (Here I am with the team, enjoying sips–in between bites of mango-cucumber salsa!)

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Back to the recipe, if you’re serving more than just your romantic partner, I recommend having the oranges squeezed and the pineapple juice ready. In fact, put both in a pitcher, and then you can pour a bit into each glass your serving, and then pour your “champagne” on top. Ah, one last point: the key with this, as you’ve heard me say before, is that the ingredients need to be fresh and of excellent quality. I promise, my friends, that makes a huge flavor difference. That, and, well, making everything with love! (If you’ve seen Like Water For Chocolate, which is a movie I highly recommend, you’ll know exactly what I mean when it comes to your feeling transferring to the food you prepare!)

Finally, speaking of things done with love, I wish all of you the best now and in 2013! ¡Feliz y próspero año nuevo!

This Pineapple-Champagne Cocktail is great for an intimate dinner--or for a group! To make larger amounts, simply multiply accordingly...and try to do as much as you can (combine juices!) ahead of time! ¡Buen provecho! Enjoy!

Ingredients

2 ounces chilled pineapple juice

2 ounces fresh orange juice

4 ounces cold Spanish sparkling wine, dry champagne, or Prosecco (Today I used Mionetto--which is PERFECT for this...though I drink it alone, too!)

1 half-moon orange slice for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Pour the fruit juices into a chilled martini or wine glass.

Top with the champagne, stir, garnish with the orange slice, and serve.